If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, this Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines buttery, flaky croissants, savory breakfast sausage, and gooey cheddar cheese all soaked in a rich, eggy custard. The result is a golden-baked dish that’s perfectly satisfying whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a lazy weekend brunch. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will quickly become a cherished part of your breakfast rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that work together beautifully to give this casserole its distinctive flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both indulgent and well-balanced.
- 3 (5-inch) large croissants: Use day-old or fresh to add that irresistible flaky and buttery base that soaks up all the flavors.
- ½ (16-oz) package breakfast sausage: Adds a savory, meaty richness that gives depth to the dish.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy pockets of sharpness throughout the casserole.
- 6 large eggs: Bind everything together and create that custardy texture.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Adds creaminess and richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 tsp dry mustard: Gives a subtle tang and complexity to the egg mixture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Croissants
Start by chopping each croissant into roughly 10 to 12 bite-sized pieces. The flaky texture of the croissants is crucial as it soaks up the egg custard while still maintaining those crispy edges you’ll love. Arrange these pieces evenly in a lightly greased 9×9-inch deep baking dish to create the perfect bed for the sausage and cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s fully browned and crumbled into small pieces. Make sure to drain any excess fat before adding it to your casserole so the dish doesn’t get greasy, but still remains rich and flavorful.
Step 3: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the chopped croissants, and then cover it all with the shredded cheddar cheese. This layer of cheese will melt and tie all those savory elements together in a gooey, irresistible way.
Step 4: Mix the Egg Custard
Whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until completely combined. This mixture forms the luscious custard that soaks into the croissants and binds every ingredient into a cohesive, dreamy casserole.
Step 5: Combine and Refrigerate
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press the croissants down so they’re submerged in the custard, allowing them to absorb all the flavors. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours if you want to prep ahead of time.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325ºF. This moderate temperature ensures the casserole cooks evenly, allowing the eggs to set without drying out.
Step 7: Bake and Finish
Bake the casserole covered with foil for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the custard is fully set and the top is golden brown. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving to give everything time to settle and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Consider topping with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick, while a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of maple syrup offers a luscious contrast to the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides to balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, fresh fruit salad, or roasted asparagus make perfect accompaniments. For a touch of sweetness, fresh berries or orange slices crisp up the plate nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just make breakfast feel extra special, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly portioned servings that look adorable and are easy to handle. You can also add layers of sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers to customize the dish and boost the nutrition factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right. Cooling it quickly and keeping it sealed prevents any sogginess or off flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover casserole pieces individually wrapped or as a whole in a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze within two days of baking and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325ºF, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until warmed through—about 15 to 20 minutes depending on your portion size. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring or flipping as needed to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other breads instead of croissants?
Absolutely! While croissants add a buttery, flaky richness, you can substitute with brioche or even thick-cut Texas toast for different textures and flavors. Just be mindful that the custard soak may differ depending on the bread.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the breakfast sausage with sautéed mushrooms, seasoned tofu, or a plant-based sausage alternative. You won’t lose the hearty texture, and you can still enjoy that comforting, savory taste.
Can I prepare the casserole the same day I want to bake it?
Definitely. If you’re short on time, assemble the dish and let it soak at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking. The longer refrigerating time does improve texture, but same-day preparation still yields a delicious result.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic for its melting quality and flavor, but you can get creative with gouda, fontina, or monterey jack. These cheeses melt beautifully and add interesting flavor profiles.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the custard is set and no longer jiggly in the center. The edges should be golden brown and the top lightly crisp. A knife inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, never wet egg.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special breakfast gift every single time. It’s comforting, easy to make ahead, and sure to impress family or friends. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a go-to recipe for your weekend mornings or holiday brunches. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus 8 to 24 hours refrigeration
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage Croissant Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weekend brunch or special breakfast. Flaky croissants are combined with savory breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful egg custard, then baked to golden perfection. The overnight soak allows the croissants to absorb the creamy egg mixture, resulting in a rich and satisfying casserole that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Croissants
- 3 large (5-inch) croissants
Sausage Mixture
- ½ (16-oz) package breakfast sausage
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Croissants: Chop each croissant into 10 to 12 bite-sized pieces. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch deep dish baking dish and evenly distribute the croissant pieces inside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is fully browned and crumbled with no pink remaining. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
- Assemble Sausage and Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chopped croissants in the baking dish.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Combine and Refrigerate: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, sausage, and cheese layers. Press the croissant pieces gently downward to ensure they absorb the egg mixture. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours to allow the custard to set and flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 325ºF (163ºC).
- Bake Covered: Bake the casserole covered with foil for 35 minutes to allow the custard to cook through without drying out.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set in the center and the top is lightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the custard firm up for cleaner portions.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants works best as they absorb the custard better without becoming overly mushy.
- You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk or cream depending on your desired richness.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
